ST. PAUL – The Minnesota Legislature finalized the remainder of the state's budget in a one day special session on June 12. State Representative Tim Miller (R-Prinsburg) said he is glad the process is now behind us.
"Compromises were made, and we finished the people's business," Miller said. "I am not completely happy with the end result, but am pleased there are a number of good provisions that will benefit west-central Minnesota. It was time to move forward."
Miller said one of the more critical provisions in the special session legislation addressed the avian flu epidemic. In all, $23 million was allocated to help battle a disease that is devastating poultry flocks across our state.
An approved bonding bill will tackle another aspect of the avian flu outbreak. Miller said funding is included for a poultry testing laboratory in Willmar which will help Minnesota address future diseases that are spread among animals.
The legislature also approved spending bills relating to environment and agriculture, jobs and energy, and K-12 Education. Miller said he was disappointed that Governor Dayton chose to prolong the process by vetoing bills and repeatedly changing his priorities throughout the post-session discussions with legislative leadership.
"The Republican House acted in good faith negotiating with the other two branches, but that did not always occur on the other side," Miller said. "Let's just say that now that the agreement is in place, the political guesswork has finally come to an end."
"On a personal note, I have learned so much during my first legislative session, and I hope I have gained the trust of those in my district to fight for their priorities and their values," Miller continued. "There is much more work to be done, and I look forward to working for our residents' needs once again in 2016."